Wolff: Sainz deserves a prominent position [excluding Mercedes]

At the end of the year, Sainz makes way at Ferrari for seven-time Formula 1 world champion Hamilton and has not yet been able to secure another opportunity, despite his track record as a proven winner.

Red Bull champions have officially announced Sergio Perez as Max Verstappen’s partner, closing that possibility for Sainz, while Mercedes seems ready to confirm Antonelli as George Russell’s teammate. The 17-year-old Italian is currently competing in Formula Two.

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff told Sky Sports television: “First of all, Carlos deserves a prominent position. He has performed admirably. However, we are embarking on a new direction to reinvent ourselves to some extent, and Kimi Antonelli certainly plays a role in that.

“We have not made a decision for next year yet, but we also did not want Carlos to wait, as he needs to make decisions for himself. That is only fair. He is doing an exceptional job,” Wolff added.

Sainz is a highly sought-after candidate by Williams and Sauber, with the former making a determined effort and the latter currently last in the standings but hoping to become the Audi factory team in 2026.

Williams boss James Vowles confirmed: “Carlos is our top priority. If we can secure him, we are prepared to establish a driver pairing that will be one of the best on the grid, ushering in a new era. We are investing significant amounts, potentially in the millions, to restore this team to its previous level of success.” (Reported by Alan Baldwin)